How to Lose a Man in Ten Days (Film)

How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is a 2003 American romantic comedy film directed by Donald Petrie. The lead roles are shared by Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey. The film centers on the intersecting lives of Andie Anderson, a writer for a fashion magazine, and Ben Barry, a professional in the advertising industry, and explores the complex relationship that develops between them.

Plot and Themes

Andie Anderson is a columnist for the fashion magazine Composure and aspires to write on serious topics. When her editor, Lana Jong, assigns her an article titled “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” Andie decides to date a man and consciously try to drive him away within ten days.

Meanwhile, advertising executive Benjamin Barry bets that he can make any woman he chooses fall in love with him within ten days, in order to win a diamond advertising campaign. The woman selected is Andie. Both have hidden agendas, but over time a genuine connection forms between them. The film explores themes of communication issues in modern relationships, mutual expectations, and gender dynamics.

Still from the Film (IMDb)

Characters and Cast

• Andie Anderson (Kate Hudson): Andie is a strong, witty, and independent woman who works as a writer for a fashion magazine, balancing her professional and personal life with confidence.
• Ben Barry (Matthew McConaughey): A self-assured and charismatic man working in advertising who enters into the bet with Andie.
• Supporting Characters: Andie’s friends and Ben’s colleagues support the film’s comedic and dramatic elements.

Still from the Film (IMDb)

Technical Information and Production

The film was shot on 35 mm film and released in color. Principal photography took place primarily in New York and Atlanta. The costume design and location choices reflect early 2000s American urban life and office culture.

Commercial Success

Released in 2003, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days achieved significant box office success. The film grossed over $177 million worldwide. It stood out particularly within the romantic comedy genre in the U.S. market.

Awards and Nominations

Awards Won

• 2003 BMI Film Music Award – David Newman

Nominations

2003 MTV Movie Award

Best Female Performance (Kate Hudson)

2003 Teen Choice Awards

• Choice Movie Actress – Comedy (Kate Hudson)
• Choice Movie Hissy Fit (Kate Hudson)
• Choice Movie Liar (Kate Hudson)
• Choice Movie Liar (Matthew McConaughey)
• Choice Movie Liplock (Kate Hudson & Matthew McConaughey)

2003 Stinkers Bad Movie Awards

Worst Actress (Kate Hudson)